Nestled amongst the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges in the heart of the Hunter vineyards in New South Wales is Hunter Valley Gardens, Australia's largest display gardens. The garden creator Bill Roche and his wife Imelda, have created a number of gardens and open spaces throughout Australia, many of which have won awards. "When we retired we thought the time had arrived to act upon our long held ambition to build a garden that would outlast us for many generations to come. A garden which would bring joy and excitement into many lives. HVG has many outstanding features including 10 differently themed garden areas with over 8 kilometres of pathways, all carefully graded for easy walking. A talented crew of some 40 and at times 50 gardeners worked there week in and week out for over 4 years constructing them. They were all marvellous people and most had a real love of nature and a joy in creating something of beauty for today and generations to come. HVG provides visitors with a magical experience - a combination of sounds of water and birds, together with a multitude of fragrances and colour". (Bill Roche)

Personally I find HVG a peaceful and restful place to visit. The photographic opportunities are endless, and meeting people from all corners of our planet gives us the opportunity to display our friendly and all-embracing Australian nature. I hope these pictures may encourage you the viewer, to visit our wonderful and unique Hunter Valley!